The summer heat can affect many of our personal effects and items that we use daily, not the least of which is your car’s tires. It is essential to pay attention to your vehicle’s tire pressure in the summer. Proper tire maintenance this season can give you peace of mind as you travel on summer vacations and holidays. Are you unsure of the proper tire safety tips to follow? Firestone offers some guidance on what to know about summer tire pressure that the team at Barbour Hendrick Honda has transcribed and condensed into this easy guide.
The Impact of Heat on Tire Pressure
The temperature can either expand or contract air. When it is hot outside, air expands. This is what happens to the air in your tires on a particularly warm summer day. Firestone notes, that tires can “gain 1 PSI (pound per square inch) for every 10℉ change in temperature.”
Heat can affect tire pressure, especially if you live in an especially warm area like North Carolina. Yes, North Carolina may fare better than other Southern states, but Greenville residents should still heed caution. Perform regular tire pressure checks this summer to keep your vehicle’s tires at ideal tire pressure.
Inflation Guidelines for Greenville Drivers
Inflation guidelines depend on a few factors like make, model, year, and trim level, so there is not a cookie-cutter proper inflation for all tires. A service center will typically have a tire pressure monitoring tool that monitors exactly what tire pressure your make and model will need.
Tires can either be underinflated or overinflated. In warm weather driving, your vehicle will most likely struggle with overinflated tires. Overinflation can cause your tires to wear down faster as less of your tire is actually touching the road, focusing on one area that leads to uneven wear on your tires. An overinflated tire is also stiff and unyielding. This can create more damage when your tires are exposed to rough roads.
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Prep Your Tires for the Summer
Aside from keeping you safe on the road, Firestone explains, “Proper tire inflation can lead to improved fuel economy.” This means less money spent at the tank, so you can save it towards fun events and treats this summer.
Do not let the heat cause you to be immobile this summer. Practice hot weather tire care by checking and adjusting your tire pressure constantly throughout the season. If you need assistance with car maintenance, the service team at Barbour Hendrick Honda can assist you in caring for your tires or any other part of your vehicle. Visit our service center today to prep your tires for the summer.
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